BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 24. Iran says it has blacklisted 45 tankers for allegedly violating its rules governing passage through the Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating tensions surrounding one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.
Iranian authorities said measures would be taken against the blacklisted vessels if they attempt future transits through the strait.
Tehran also warned that vessels conducting cargo transfers with the sanctioned tankers could face action, potentially extending the restrictions beyond the original list of 45 ships.
Iran did not immediately provide details about the tankers, their ownership or flags, or specify which rules they were accused of violating.
The announcement comes as the United States threatens Iran with what Washington has described as the toughest sanctions in history.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, making developments there particularly important for global oil and gas supplies.
The Iranian decision could add further uncertainty for commercial shipping companies operating in and around the waterway.
The latest development also highlights the growing connection between economic pressure on Tehran and maritime tensions in the Gulf as Iran and the United States intensify pressure on each other.
